Located in Ljubljana, Slovenia on a corner site at the western entrance to the city, the composition of the West Gate office building, designed by Studio Kalamar, is defined by two office towers. The southern tower rises over the intersection, accentuating the direction towards the city with its sharp projecting corner while the lower northern wing serves as a background to the principal motive as its composition approaches the dynamic of railway traffic behind it. More images and architects’ description after the break.
Both wings are oriented towards the west, accentuating the openness of city. Vertical cores are located on the eastern sides and provide the option of connection to the future extension of adjacent building.
Office programs are organized in the two wings, one with 8, the other with 14 floors. The ground floor comprises supporting public programs and the entrance lobby. Different wing lengths proved various floor divisions and office size options.
The panel facade system is supplemented by a white fixed shading element attached in four different directions, thus providing a dynamic facade effect.
Green areas serve as a barrier against the intense traffic with dense tree formations and two hillocks facing the intersection, thus forming a sheltered public space in front of the building.
Buildings are built for people, and their well-being is crucial to productivity. So, users are encouraged to stay in contact with their surroundings and their working environment should achieve its good climate with little burdening of technology. A low-temperature heating and cooling system fuelled by heat pumps provide the best option. All technological systems are connected to a central control system, ensuring optimal energy use.
Architect: Studio Kalamar Location: Ljubljana, Slovenia Area: 35.000 m2 Client: Gruda Jurmes d.o.o. Status: Invited Competition, 2010 Type: Office
